Preparations for the 21st Bermuda International Film Festival [BIFF] are well underway, promising to make it “event to remember with a spectacular array of films,” with the BIFF Academy set to hold two programs aimed at students.

A spokesperson said, “BIFF will take place from 17 March to 25 March, 2018, and it has an important education purpose. As part of the festival delivers two programmes designed to inform and inspire the Island’s younger generation through the imagination and attention-grabbing medium of film.

“The BIFF Academy is comprised of the Books to Film initiative targeted at primary school children and the Reel Talk documentary screening aimed at middle school students. The programme is free to students and their teachers.”

“Book to Film for P1- P4 students will take place on Tuesday, 20 March and Wednesday, 21 March from 8:30am to 10:30am and Thursday, 22 March from 10:15am to 12:15pm. The screening takes place at The Earl Cameron Theatre. The Wednesday and Thursday program are full however Tuesday has a few seats left.

“The Books to Film programme is the Festival’s initiative focusing on visual literacy learning in primary schools. Classes from Primary 1-4 are invited to come experience an exciting programme of reading and film. Story books are read to primary school children followed by the screening of a film adaptation. The format is designed to encourage enthusiasm for both reading and high-quality films. BIFF introduces the films and leads discussions.

“Reel Talk for middle and high school students will take place on Thursday, 22 March from 8:30am to 10am. The screenings take place at The Earl Cameron Theatre. There are over 150 students and teachers signed up presently.

“Reel Talk offers an exclusive opportunity for middle and high school students to attend the screening of a socially relevant documentary film during the Festival. Reel Talk aims to stir students’ interest in film making, to encourage creative expression, provide a new perspective, and develop interpersonal skills.”

Artistic Director Nicky Gurret said, “We are pleased with all the schools that have signed up and if there are any home schools that would like to attend please contact director@biff.bm.”